How much does a lymphatic drainage massage cost?
How much does a lymphatic drainage massage cost?
$100 – $150 average cost per session (60 minutes)
$150 – $200 average cost per session (90 minutes)
Average lymphatic drainage massage cost
The average lymphatic drainage massage costs $100 to $150 for a 60-minute session or $150 to $200 for a longer 90-minute session. Lymphatic drainage massages help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and relieve pain and stress. You can also buy massage packages with multiple lymphatic drainage sessions at a reduced rate.
| Session type | Average price per session |
|---|---|
| 30 minutes | $50 – $100 |
| 60 minutes | $100 – $150 |
| 90 minutes | $150 – $200 |
| Package of 3* | $250 – $400 |
| Package of 6* | $500 – $650 |
*60-minute sessions
What is lymphatic massage?
Lymphatic drainage massage, also called manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), involves stimulating the body in order to move lymph fluid. The lymphatic system circulates fluid through nodes and removes any waste. When you’re sick or not moving regularly, you may notice swollen lymph nodes in your neck, groin, or underarms.
Although lymphatic drainage is generally safe, you should avoid it if:
You’re pregnant.
You have an active infection.
You have a heart condition or blood clotting.
You have a kidney disorder.
You have chronic high blood pressure.
Lymphatic massage cost factors
Several factors affect the cost of a lymphatic drainage massage:
Experience: Massage therapists with more training and experience tend to charge more, especially those with training in techniques like the Vodder or Chickly methods.
Location: Massage therapists in larger cities usually charge more due to the higher cost of living.
Session length: A lymphatic drainage massage usually lasts about an hour. Longer treatments will cost more than average, and shorter sessions cost less.
Add-ons: Adding extra services like lymph taping or foam pads costs $5 to $50 per session.
Packages: Many massage therapists offer discounts if you purchase a package with multiple sessions.
Not all insurance policies cover massage therapy. Some policies may cover your sessions if they agree it’s medically necessary or if your doctor prescribes it for a specific condition like lymphedema.
Benefits of a lymphatic drainage massage
Lymphatic drainage can help support your body’s natural detoxification processes. It can also help with the following:
Reduce swelling or lymphedema
Support the immune system
Boosts healing by increasing blood flow
Enhance skin health
Maintain a youthful appearance
Relieve stress
Reduce pain
Many people utilize MLD massage to reduce swelling and speed up the healing process after cosmetic surgery.
Techniques
Lymphatic drainage massages use gentle pressure and specific movements to stimulate the movement of lymph fluids. These include:
Soft gliding movements
Gently stretching the skin
Cupping and compressing using the hands
Massaging in a specific sequence
What to expect
Before your massage appointment, be sure to drink plenty of water to encourage lymph flow and avoid ibuprofen or other blood thinners if possible. During your appointment, you’ll lie on your back or sit up if you have lymphedema in your head or neck.
The massage therapist will start with breathing exercises and then use light movements to massage any non-swollen lymph nodes. Then, they move on to swollen or blocked nodes, moving the fluid toward larger nodes and then toward the heart.
Other massage types & costs
If you’re not concerned specifically with lymphatic drainage or want to explore other options, the table below details the average price ranges for some of the most common types of massage therapy:
| Massage type | Average cost per 60-minute session |
|---|---|
| Standard massage cost | $50 – $130 |
| Swedish massage cost | $50 – $75 |
| Prenatal massage cost | $75 – $100 |
| Medical massage cost | $70 – $125 |
| Sports massage cost | $75 – $125 |
Lymphatic drainage massage FAQs
Does lymphatic drainage massage work?
Lymphatic drainage massage works by reducing swelling and supporting your body’s natural detox processes. Many people feel energized and experience less bloating after a session. If you have a condition like lymphedema or are going through post-surgery recovery, this massage type can be particularly beneficial.
Where do I get a lymphatic drainage massage?
You can get a lymphatic drainage massage at massage studios, spas, med spas, or from independent massage therapists. Just make sure the studio or spa is licensed and the therapist is trained specifically in lymphatic drainage massage before making an appointment.
What can I do after a lymphatic drainage massage?
Your massage therapist may give you specific instructions after the massage, but usually, they recommend:
Taking a warm shower or bath
Wearing loose, comfortable clothing
Applying a light moisturizer to the skin
Resting and avoiding strenuous activity
How often should you get a lymphatic drainage massage?
How often you get a lymphatic drainage massage depends on your health goals:
After surgery or an injury, many doctors recommend 2 to 3 sessions per week until the swelling is reduced.
For health conditions that cause lymphedema, a massage therapist may recommend sessions every 1 to 3 weeks to manage chronic swelling.
For overall wellness, you may only need one session every 3 to 6 months.
You can always adjust the frequency according to your symptoms.
What is Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage?
Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage (BLDM) is a unique approach that combines manual lymphatic drainage massage (MLD), long, sweeping strokes alternating between firm and light pressure, and myofascial release. The Brazilian method uses deeper pressure than MLD, but it's not considered a deep tissue massage.
While MLD is a medically recognized treatment for lymphedema, BLDM targets bloating, puffiness, water retention, and cellulite for enhanced overall wellness. Many people say it also provides a mental and physical energy boost.
What to look for in a lymphatic drainage massage therapist
Follow these guidelines to help you choose a qualified massage therapist near you:
Look at their prices as well as their experience and training.
Confirm that they’re licensed. If you're in a state that doesn't license massage therapists, verify that they have relevant training and experience in MLD.
Read their customer’s reviews on Thervo and Google.
Ask questions about the massage process.
Make sure they have openings that fit your schedule.
Questions to ask a massage therapist
Asking these questions can help you pick the best massage therapist for you:
What type of lymphatic drainage methods or techniques do you use?
How much experience do you have with lymphatic drainage?
What certifications do you have?
Are there any potential side effects?
How often would I need this massage to reduce symptoms?
Do you have experience working with insurance claims?
Do you offer package discounts for multiple sessions?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.